Putting God First

In our busy daily lives, and in our pursuit of worldly matters, we often forget to put God first. Especially in our simple daily task, and in times of joy and happiness, we tend to forget God's loving influence and touch in our daily lives. I myself would admit that I often forget to put God first, especially when I am enjoying myself and having a good time. And conversely it is worrying that I tend to turn to God at times of turbulent, and troubles.

 

If we consider God as a close friend, the reverse would actually be true. We often share happy moments with our loved one's, announcing and celebrating significant milestones with them such as promotions, parties and etc, yet we similarly neglect or tend to forget to share these moments with God. Honestly, if God was human, I am sure that He would be greatly offended. But ..then again, that’s the beauty of God, He is not human. He is the almighty, the ever merciful and compassionate.

 

God not only loves us in our best moments, but His love for us does not change in our darkest moments. His love is deeper then the deepest ocean and longer lasting then eternity. His love is always there, and He loves us so much, that He does not compel or force us to love him back . He wants a genuine and loving relationship, and will always be standing there whenever we are ready to turn to Him. When I reflect on this, I realized, there is no man / woman on earth that exemplifies this love , or anywhere close to it, yet we often seek out belonging and relationships with our fellow human beings rather then turning to God.

 

In recent times, I've learnt that putting God first in whatever you do, somehow makes things easier. In times of happiness and joy, to share your happiness with Him, and to thank him for the abundant blessings he has graced me with, and in difficult times, to offer a prayer, admitting my own weakness, and to ask for His guidance and presence to be with me. By doing this, especially in difficult times, things do not turn out as bad as I would have expected.

 

Like before going into a meeting or conversation, knowing well that it could be a problematic one, I offer a prayer, asking for help, patience, guidance and wisdom, and without fail, things turn out better then expected. Or when I am enjoying myself on a holiday with great company, in a beautiful surrounding, I marvel at God's creation, and the perfection of His creation, the sunsets, the breeze, the waves of the sea, and I thank him for giving me the opportunity to experience these things , and with the people I care for.

 

I admit that it I often forget to practice this, but when I do, I find the experience a lot better, and sweeter for me. I appreciate what I have and am grateful for my many blessings. In difficult times, I then see His loving and guiding hand, protecting me from harm, and supporting me in my challenges.